Denmark Introduces Biometric Residence Cards 20th May 2012

According to regulation (EC) No. 380/2008 of 18 April 2008 residence cards issued after May 20th 2012 shall contain an electronic chip with photo, fingerprints and signature recorded digitally. In this way the security against forgery and misuse of residence cards is strengthened considerably.

The decision to introduce fingerprints in residence cards, has been made at a central level in the EU as part of the combat against terrorism, human trade, human trafficking, illegal immigration and other transnational crime.

Biometrics must be obtained when the application is lodgedIn order to issue biometric residence cards, installation of special equipment for taking photos and recording fingerprints and signature is necessary. Read more here.

Can I apply for a residence/work permit if one or more of my fingers are injured?According to the law biometric data must always be contained in a biometric residence card. If the index finger is injured, a biometric residence card can be issued. In that case, a fingerprint will be taken of an alternative finger.

Must children also give their fingerprints?No. Fingerprints are not collected from children under 6 years of age.

What to bring?Bring the application and supporting documents (originals as well as copies). Copies of the originals must be in colour and size A4.

Babies: We recommend to bring a recent photo of the child, which meets the requirements for a photo. The photo can then be scanned by the mission, in case the mission does not have the means to take a valid photo.